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In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the Falcons faithful, the Atlanta Falcons announced the dismissal of Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot on Sunday evening, capping off a tumultuous 2025 season that fell far short of expectations.
The announcement came via a press release from team owner Arthur Blank, who cited the need for a “fresh direction” after the Falcons finished the year with a disappointing 8-9 record, missing the playoffs for the eighth consecutive season.
“We appreciate the efforts of Raheem and Terry during their time with the organization,” Blank stated. “However, our ultimate goal is to bring a championship to Atlanta, and we believe a change in leadership is necessary to achieve that.”
Morris, 49, was hired as the Falcons’ head coach in 2024 following a successful stint as the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, where he helped lead them to a Super Bowl victory in 2021.
His tenure in Atlanta began with promise, as the team showed flashes of defensive improvement and offensive creativity in his first year.
However, injuries to key players like quarterback Michael Penix Jr., less-than-stellar play from Kirk Cousins and misused running back Bijan Robinson, combined with inconsistent play-calling, derailed the 2025 campaign. The Falcons ranked 28th in total defense and struggled with late-game collapses, including a mid season stint where they loss seven of eight games.
Fontenot, who joined the Falcons as GM in 2021 after a long career in the New Orleans Saints’ front office, oversaw a roster rebuild that included high-profile draft picks like edge rusher Dallas Turner and wide receiver Rome Odunze.
While his talent evaluation was praised early on—particularly for selecting Robinson in the 2023 draft—the past two seasons exposed flaws in free agency decisions and salary cap management. Critics pointed to overpaid contracts for aging veterans and a lack of depth on the offensive line as key factors in the team’s underperformance.
The firings come on the eve of what is traditionally known as “Black Monday” in the NFL, the day after the regular season when underperforming teams make sweeping changes.
Atlanta’s decision was unexpected by some, given Morris’s defensive background and Fontenot’s track record in player scouting, but fan frustration had been building throughout the year. Social media erupted with calls for change after a string of blowout losses in November and December.
Former Falcons greats weighed in on the news. Hall of Fame quarterback Matt Ryan, now a broadcaster, expressed surprise but understanding: “Raheem brought energy and a player’s coach mentality, but results matter in this league. Terry built a young core, but the wins didn’t come. Atlanta deserves better.”
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Blank indicated that the search for new leadership would begin immediately, with an emphasis on candidates who can maximize the team’s young talent and navigate the upcoming draft, where the Falcons hold the No. 8 overall pick.
Potential head coaching candidates rumored to be on the radar include Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, known for his innovative schemes, and former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, who has expressed interest in returning to the NFL.
For the GM role, names like Kansas City Chiefs assistant GM Mike Borgonzi and Baltimore Ravens director of player personnel Joe Hortiz have surfaced in early speculation.
This marks the third head coaching change for the Falcons since their Super Bowl LI appearance in 2017, highlighting the ongoing instability in the front office. Fans, who have endured years of mediocrity, are hopeful that Blank’s latest reset will finally turn the tide.
The Atlanta Sports Gazette will provide updates as the coaching and GM searches unfold. For now, the Dirty Birds are once again at a crossroads, searching for the leaders to soar back into contention.
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The Atlanta Falcons play the New Orleans Saints on Sunday in the season finale for both teams. With Kirk Cousins back under center, the question remains: Can the Falcons win it?
These games are always high-profile for the NFL and this is no different, with both teams vying for victory. Below, you’ll find all the details on how to watch their upcoming game and a look at the historical context of this storied matchup.
The Falcons are eager to see how their new team competes for the 2025 schedule wraps.
- Matchup: Atlanta Falcons (7-9) vs New Orleans Saints (5-10)
- Date & Time: Sunday, January 3, 2026, at 1 p.m. ET
- Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.
- Streaming: free at fubuTV
- TV Channel: Amazon Prime
If you want to see the game, or more accurately, watch the game on TV, you’ve got options, including streaming and more.
This article will go over some ways you can watch the Falcons for free.
Can I Stream The Falcons Game?
You can watch the Falcons games live throughout the season with YoutubeTV’s NFL Sunday Ticket. It includes access to over 160 out-of-market NFL games on Sunday afternoons. College students can get the subscription for $199.
Here are some ways you can never miss a down of Falcons football this season.
Watch On Cable TV
In Atlanta, you can usually watch the Falcons on FOX 5, which is the local TV affiliate in the market. You can watch the game for free across all devices — just sign in with your TV provider credentials.
Alternatively, you can buy a pretty cheap antenna for less than $20 to tune in local channels around your area.
Sign Up For A Streaming Service
You can watch the Falcons game for free at fubuTV, which has a 7-day trial. Watch immediately upon signup.
Watch On The Falcons App
Watch the games live on the official Falcons mobile app for iOS or Android. On the app, you can watch highlights, game previews and exclusive content from the team.
Watch On The NFL App
The NFL’s Mobile App (iOS and Android) has access to all your favorite games, including the Atlanta Falcons.
Once you download the app, you can tune in to live local and primetime games.
Falcons vs. Saints: A History
As of early January 2026, the teams have played 113 games (regular season + playoffs), with the record extremely close:
- Atlanta Falcons lead the overall series 57–56 (including 1 postseason win for Atlanta).
- Regular season only: 56–56 (tied).
Final Word
The Falcons have often relied on their offensive firepower, with players like running back Bijan Robinson (1,286 yards, 12 TDs in 2024) and wide receiver Drake London (90 catches, 1,084 yards, 7 TDs in 2024). How will it go this year?
As an additional way, you can watch the Falcons for free (Prime Video) on Thursday Night Football.
It happens once this season, and you can read all about it.
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In a heartbreaking finish to the 2025 season, the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs fell 39-34 to the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Allstate Sugar Bowl on New Year’s Day.
The Dawgs, fresh off an SEC championship, led by nine points at halftime but couldn’t hold off a furious second-half rally from the Rebels, capped by a 47-yard game-winning field goal with six seconds remaining.
Georgia finishes the year 12-2, with both losses coming in high-stakes postseason environments. Here are five key takeaways from Thursday night’s stunning defeat:
1. The Fourth-Quarter Magic Finally Ran Out
Georgia entered the game with an impeccable record in close contests, but the Bulldogs’ streak of resilience in the final frame came to an end.
After building a 21-12 halftime lead behind strong rushing from Nate Frazier and Cash Jones, the offense stalled in the second half, managing just three points on their first four possessions after the break.
A late rally tied the game at 34-34 on a Peyton Woodring field goal with 56 seconds left, but Ole Miss quickly responded with a 40-yard bomb to set up the winner. The Dawgs had won 75 straight games when leading entering the fourth quarter — until tonight.
2. Gunner Stockton Showed Promise, But Inexperience Showed in Crunch Time
First-year starter Gunner Stockton battled valiantly in his biggest stage yet, completing 15 of 31 passes for 219 yards and a touchdown while adding a scrambling score on the ground.
He engineered key drives late, including the game-tying march, displaying the toughness and improvisation that could make him a star in 2026.
However, critical sacks and a late fumble on a chaotic kickoff return highlighted the growing pains of a young quarterback facing a relentless Ole Miss pass rush. Stockton’s performance offers hope for the future, but the margin for error in playoff football proved too slim.
3. Defense Couldn’t Contain Trinidad Chambliss’ Heroics
The Bulldogs’ vaunted defense, which had rounded into elite form late in the season, struggled to slow down Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss in the second half.
The Division II transfer turned portal gem went 30-for-46 for 362 yards and two touchdowns, repeatedly escaping pressure with magical scrambles and hitting big plays to receivers like Harrison Wallace III (156 yards, TD) and De’Zhaun Stribling (122 yards).
Chambliss’ 40-yard completion in the final seconds set up the decisive kick. Georgia forced some stops but allowed Ole Miss to outscore them 20-10 in the fourth, avenging the Rebels’ regular-season loss in Athens.
4. Special Teams and Late Execution Proved Costly
Kirby Smart’s aggressive calls — including a successful fake punt that led to points — kept Georgia in control early. But in the end, execution faltered: a missed facemask non-call aided a drive, a fumbled kickoff return led to a safety, and chaotic laterals on the final play sealed the defeat.
Kicker Peyton Woodring was solid, but the inability to punch in a touchdown from close range late forced a tying field goal instead of a potential lead.
Small mistakes in a thriller like this were magnified against a hot Ole Miss team playing with house money.
5. End of an Era? Questions Loom for 2026
This marks back-to-back playoff quarterfinal exits for Georgia, a stark contrast to the dominant 2021-2022 title runs.
With key departures looming on both lines and in the secondary, plus the transfer portal churning, Kirby Smart faces a rebuild to sustain the Bulldogs’ elite status in an expanding SEC.
The young core — led by Stockton, Frazier, and emerging defenders — provides optimism, but falling short against a resilient Ole Miss squad (now heading to the Fiesta Bowl semifinal) underscores the razor-thin margins in today’s college football landscape.
Final Word
Dawg Nation will process this one for a while, but the foundation remains strong in Athens. On to recruiting and the offseason. Go Dawgs.
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This game is for a chance to advance in the College Football Playoffs. The Georgia Bulldogs take on the Ole Miss Rebels in New Orleans.
Here’s your guide to how to watch Georgia Bulldogs vs. Ole Miss — what channel it’s on, when it starts, how to stream or listen, and the best ways to catch all the action.
If you don’t have tickets to the game, you’ll want to watch it on TV. This article will show you how.
The Georgia Bulldogs regular schedule has been a tough one, but so are the Dawgs. Wanna watch?How To Watch The Georgia Game
- Date & Time: Thursday, January 1, 2026 — Kickoff at 8:00 p.m. ET
- Location: Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, La.
- Matchup: No. 3 Georgia vs. No. 6 Ole Miss. It’s a rematch of their regular-season meeting.
📡 Where to Watch (Live on TV & Streaming)
- The game will be broadcast nationally on ABC.
- If you don’t have cable or standard TV service, you can stream the game via major live-TV streaming services that carry ABC, including: YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, DIRECTV Stream, and in some markets, Sling TV
- Streaming: FuboTV (Free Trial)
Georgia vs. Ole Miss: A History
Georgia leads the series.
The Bulldogs have historically dominated the matchup, especially in high-stakes games.The exact record varies slightly depending on postseason counting, but Alabama has consistently held a multi-game lead.
📚 Historical Overview
Early Years (1895–1960s)
- The teams first met in 1895.
- Early meetings were competitive, with Georgia winning several of the first matchups.
- By the 1920s–1940s, Ole Miss began to assert more control, building the foundation of its long-term dominance.
Final Word
The Georgia Bulldogs, a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), tend to play a few games against smaller schools as part of their non-conference schedule. With the expansion of the conference, a tougher schedule means they can lose every week they play. But Kirby is ready.l
Football is a religion in the South. Want to leave the house? Catch all the games at your favorite local bar.
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As Atlanta’s go-to source for local news and events, we’re excited to bring you this comprehensive guide to catching today’s College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal action.
With the expanded 12-team format in full swing, January 1 marks a thrilling triple-header of games that could shape the path to the national championship.
Local fans have extra reason to tune in, as the Georgia Bulldogs take center stage in the evening matchup against Ole Miss in the Sugar Bowl. Whether you’re watching from home, streaming on the go, or joining a lively watch party in the city, we’ve got all the details you need to make the most of game day.
Today’s CFP Quarterfinal Schedule
The quarterfinals kicked off yesterday with the Cotton Bowl, but today’s slate features three high-stakes games broadcast exclusively on ESPN. Here’s the lineup:
- Capital One Orange Bowl: No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. No. 5 Oregon Ducks
Kickoff: 12:00 p.m. ET
Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida
This early game pits a defensive-minded Texas Tech squad against Oregon’s high-powered offense in what promises to be a stylistic clash. 13 - Rose Bowl Game Presented by Prudential: No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers vs. No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide
Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET
Location: Rose Bowl Stadium, Pasadena, California
Top-seeded Indiana, riding an undefeated season, faces a battle-tested Alabama team looking to upset the bracket in the iconic “Granddaddy of Them All.” 1 - Allstate Sugar Bowl: No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs vs. No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels
Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. ET
Location: Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana
This SEC showdown has massive local appeal for Atlanta-area fans, with Georgia aiming to advance under head coach Kirby Smart against Lane Kiffin’s explosive Ole Miss squad. Expect fireworks in a game that’s just a short drive from home for many Dawgs supporters. 30
All times are Eastern, and weather shouldn’t be a factor since the Orange and Sugar Bowls are indoors, while the Rose Bowl’s Southern California setting typically offers clear skies.
How to Watch on TV and Cable in Atlanta
If you’re settling in at home, ESPN is your one-stop channel for all three games. In the Atlanta metro area, here’s where to find it on major providers:
- Comcast Xfinity: Channel 35 (SD) or 835 (HD)
- AT&T U-verse: Channel 602 (SD) or 1602 (HD)
- Spectrum: Channel 31 (SD) or 131 (HD)
- DirecTV: Channel 206
- Dish Network: Channel 140
For over-the-air viewers, ESPN isn’t available without cable, but you can check local affiliates for any simulcasts (though unlikely for CFP games). If you have a smart TV, download the ESPN app and log in with your cable credentials for seamless viewing.
Announcers for the day include Sean McDonough and Greg McElroy on the call for the Sugar Bowl, with Molly McGrath on the sidelines—familiar voices for SEC fans.
Streaming Options
Cord-cutters rejoice: There are plenty of ways to stream the games without traditional cable. All CFP action is available live on the ESPN app or ESPN.com, but you’ll need a subscription or login from a participating provider. Here’s a breakdown of popular services that carry ESPN:
- ESPN App/ESPN Unlimited: Free with a cable login or as part of select pay-TV packages like Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV. This is the most direct way to stream on your phone, tablet, or smart device.
- Fubo: Starts at $79.99/month; includes ESPN and offers a free trial. Great for sports fans with 4K streaming options for select games.
- Hulu + Live TV: $76.99/month; bundles ESPN with Disney+ and Hulu for added value.
- YouTube TV: $72.99/month; user-friendly interface and unlimited DVR.
- Sling TV (Orange Plan): $40/month; the cheapest option that includes ESPN, perfect if you’re just in it for college football.
- DirecTV Stream: $69.99/month; solid for Atlanta locals with regional sports add-ons.
For international viewers or those traveling, a VPN like ExpressVPN can help access U.S. streams. Note that blackouts are rare for national CFP broadcasts, but always check your service’s app for confirmation.
Local Watch Parties and Best Bars in Atlanta
Nothing beats the energy of watching with fellow fans, especially for the Georgia game. Atlanta’s sports bar scene is buzzing today, with many spots decked out in red and black. Here are some top recommendations based on local vibes, screen setups, and game-day specials:
- Park Tavern in Piedmont Park: Hosting a “Hair of the Dawg” New Year’s Day Watch Party with massive indoor/outdoor screens, sound on for all games, bottomless mimosas, and a heated patio. Doors open at 11 a.m.—perfect for the full slate. Expect a mix of CFP fans and locals recovering from New Year’s Eve.
- The Nook on Piedmont Park: A go-to for college football with multiple TVs, a covered patio, and game-day eats like totchos. It’s especially popular among out-of-town alumni groups.
- Marlow’s Tavern (Multiple Locations, e.g., Vinings or Midtown): Upscale pub fare with plenty of screens. Their Cumberland location is a hotspot for SEC games, offering specials like $5 drafts during touchdowns.
- Woofs Atlanta (Midtown): A lively sports bar with 30+ TVs, known for its inclusive atmosphere and strong drinks. Great for groups watching the entire day.
- Wicked Wolf (Downtown): High-energy spot with giant projectors, wings, and beer towers. It’s a favorite for big games, with no cover charge today.
- AMG Lounge (Buckhead): Newer venue with top ratings for NFL watch parties, but equally suited for CFP—think plush seating and craft cocktails.
- College Football Hall of Fame (Downtown Atlanta): Not just a museum— they’re hosting a free viewing event in their atrium with big screens, interactive exhibits, and food trucks. A family-friendly option to catch the games while soaking in football history.
For Georgia-specific watch parties, check alumni groups like the Atlanta Dawg Club, which often gathers at spots like Hudson Grille in Midtown. Reservations are recommended, as spots fill up fast on playoff days.
If you’re hosting at home, local spots like Your 3rd Spot in West Midtown offer takeout packages with game-ready platters.
Radio and Audio Options
If you’re driving around Atlanta or prefer audio commentary, tune in via radio:
- National Broadcast: ESPN Radio (available on SiriusXM Channel 80 or the ESPN app) with full coverage of all games.
- Local for Georgia Game: The Bulldogs’ flagship station is 680 The Fan (WXIA-AM) in Atlanta, with Scott Howard, Eric Zeier, and D.J. Shockley on the call. Stream via the Georgia Bulldogs app or TuneIn.
- Ole Miss Feed: For Rebels fans, check 97.3 FM in Atlanta affiliates or the Ole Miss Sports Network app.
Additional Tips for Atlanta Fans
- Traffic and Parking: If heading to a bar near Piedmont Park or Downtown, use MARTA or rideshares—post-New Year’s traffic could be heavy, especially around evening rush for the Sugar Bowl.
- Betting and Odds: Georgia is favored by 6.5 points with an over/under of 55.5—check apps like FanDuel or DraftKings for live lines (legal in Georgia via mobile).
- Family-Friendly Viewing: The College Football Hall of Fame event is ideal for kids, or stream at home with ESPN’s multi-view feature to flip between games.
- Post-Game Coverage: Stick with us here at AtlantaFi.com for recaps, highlights, and analysis—especially if Georgia advances to the semifinals at the Peach Bowl on January 9 right here in Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Whether you’re a die-hard Dawg or just love the playoff drama, today’s games are must-see TV. Go Bulldogs, and happy New Year from all of us in Atlanta!
- Capital One Orange Bowl: No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. No. 5 Oregon Ducks
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In a major boost for college sports in the heart of the city, Georgia State University has officially begun construction on its new baseball stadium, bringing the Panthers baseball program back to downtown Atlanta and adding another key venue to the city’s rich sports landscape.
The $15.4 million project is rising on the historic grounds of the former Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium — the legendary ballpark that once hosted the Atlanta Braves (1966-1996), the Atlanta Falcons, the Atlanta Chiefs, the Peach Bowl, and even Olympic baseball during the 1996 Summer Games.
Georgia State Breaks Ground on New Baseball Stadium
Most famously, it’s where Hank Aaron smashed his record-breaking 715th home run on April 8, 1974.
Currently a parking lot adjacent to Center Parc Credit Union Stadium (home of GSU football), the site sits just steps from the university’s downtown campus, the new GSU Convocation Center (home to men’s and women’s basketball), and the surrounding Summerhill neighborhood.
When completed, the new facility will create a true “athletics village” in the area, enhancing fan access and community engagement right in the center of Atlanta’s sports scene.
The stadium will feature approximately 1,000 seats, a modern turf playing surface, expanded dugouts, upgraded batting cages and bullpens, advanced technology infrastructure, and improved seating and hospitality areas.
AI rendering of new GSU baseball stadium.
To honor the site’s storied past, GSU is relocating the iconic Hank Aaron statue from the entrance of Center Parc Credit Union Stadium to the new baseball stadium’s main entrance.Plans also include a commemorative marker in left field recognizing the exact spot where Aaron’s historic homer cleared the wall.
“This stadium represents more than just a place to play baseball,” said Georgia State President Dr. M. Brian Blake. “It connects Georgia State to Atlanta’s sports legacy and creates a vibrant future for our program and community.”
The project received its final green light when the City of Atlanta approved the Land Disturbance Permit on November 18, 2025.
Construction crews have already mobilized equipment to the site, with completion targeted for fall 2026 — in time for the Panthers to potentially open the 2027 season in their new home.
The move brings baseball much closer to campus, replacing the current GSU Baseball Complex in Decatur (about 12 miles away), which has served as the Panthers’ home since 1986.
This new venue joins Atlanta’s impressive lineup of sports facilities, including Mercedes-Benz Stadium (home of the NFL’s Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United), Truist Park (home of the MLB’s Braves), State Farm Arena (home of the NBA’s Hawks), and the nearby Center Parc Credit Union Stadium and GSU Convocation Center.
It’s a welcome addition for local fans, student-athletes, and the Summerhill community, further solidifying downtown Atlanta as a hub for both professional and collegiate sports.
Donations continue to support the project, with naming opportunities still available for the stadium and playing field (pending approval from the University System of Georgia Board of Regents).
Final Word
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more developments as this exciting new chapter in Atlanta sports history takes shape!
For more information, visit georgiastatesports.com. Go Panthers!
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ATLANTA — As the Atlanta Falcons limp toward the end of another disappointing season, owner Arthur Blank is taking decisive action.
With the team sitting at 6-9 and officially eliminated from playoff contention for the eighth straight year, Blank has enlisted the services of consulting firm Sportology to conduct a thorough “health check” on the organization’s football operations.
Falcons To Bring in Consultant To Gauge Football Operations
Sportology, founded by former Chelsea FC executive Mike Forde and featuring former Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith as a key partner, has previously worked with Blank’s group on projects including Atlanta United and the new NWSL expansion team.
Now, the firm is turning its attention to the Falcons amid mounting questions about the team’s direction.
The review, first reported by Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, comes at a critical juncture. The Falcons face uncertainty at quarterback beyond veteran Kirk Cousins, whose future remains unclear despite solid recent performances filling in for the injured Michael Penix Jr. Key decisions loom for star players like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, all navigating contract situations.
Compounding the challenges are salary cap constraints and the absence of a 2026 first-round draft pick, traded away in previous deals.
Head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot are squarely in the spotlight. Reports indicate Blank will evaluate the entire football operation at season’s end, with buzz around the league suggesting potential changes could be on the horizon.
While Blank has historically shown patience, the prolonged playoff drought — the longest in franchise history — has amplified calls for accountability.
Fans have expressed a mix of frustration and dark humor online, with social media threads highlighting the irony of yet another offseason overhaul looming. One common sentiment: “Same old Falcons,” punctuated by memes of endless rebuild cycles.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Earns Rave Reviews
On a brighter note, Mercedes-Benz Stadium continues to shine as one of the NFL’s premier venues.
The iconic halo board, retractable roof, and fan-friendly concessions — including top-rated food options and affordable pricing — consistently earn rave reviews from visitors and locals alike. Even in tough seasons, the stadium remains a point of pride for Atlanta sports enthusiasts, as well as foodies who love cheap food.
Final Word
As the Falcons close out the 2025 campaign with games against the Rams and beyond, all eyes will be on Blank’s next moves.
Will this external review spark the changes needed to end the postseason drought?
Falcons Nation can only hope 2026 brings more than just another evaluation. Rise up — or reset? Time will tell.
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GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Atlanta Falcons (6-9) picked up their second consecutive victory on Sunday, holding off the Arizona Cardinals (3-12) for a hard-fought 26-19 road win at State Farm Stadium.
Despite falling behind 10-0 early, Atlanta rallied behind strong performances from Kirk Cousins, Bijan Robinson, and Kyle Pitts to improve to 6-9 on the season.
Falcons Come Back To Beat Arizona
While playoff hopes are long gone, the Falcons showed resilience and flashed potential heading into the final weeks. Here are five key takeaways from the victory over the Cards.
1. Bijan Robinson Makes Franchise History in His Home State
Bijan Robinson put on a show in Arizona, his home state, racking up over 170 yards from scrimmage (including a touchdown reception) to surpass 2,000 yards from scrimmage for the season. This milestone makes him just the third Falcon ever to hit that mark, joining legends William Andrews (1981 and 1983) and Jamal Anderson (1998).
Robinson’s explosive plays, including big runs and catches, were the engine of the offense. He’s proving week after week why he’s one of the most dynamic backs in the league — and a building block for the future.
2. Kirk Cousins Bounces Back with Multi-TD Performance
After some uneven stretches this season, Kirk Cousins delivered when it mattered most, throwing for two touchdowns and adding a rushing score on a QB sneak. He went 21-of-35 despite an early interception that put Atlanta in a hole.
Cousins spread the ball effectively, connecting with his playmakers and managing the game in the second half. This kind of veteran poise is exactly what the Falcons need as they evaluate the quarterback position moving forward.
3. Kyle Pitts Is Heating Up at the Perfect Time
Tight end Kyle Pitts continued his recent surge, hauling in key catches — including a touchdown — and converting multiple third downs. Pitts was a matchup nightmare for the Cardinals, and his chemistry with Cousins is clicking.
With four TD catches in the last two games, Pitts is reminding everyone of his elite potential. If he finishes the season strong, it could silence some of the trade rumors and solidify him as a core piece.
4. Defense Steps Up in Crunch Time
The Falcons’ defense bent but didn’t break, limiting Arizona’s high-powered tight end Trey McBride to just a handful of catches and forcing missed field goals from the Cardinals. Rookie Brandon Dorlus notched a big sack, and the unit as a whole pressured backup QB Jacoby Brissett.
The game-sealer came from cornerback C.J. Henderson, who picked off Brissett late in the fourth quarter to ice the win — his first interception since 2022. In a season full of defensive struggles, these opportunistic plays are encouraging signs.
5. Third-Down Efficiency and Red-Zone Execution Win Games
Atlanta entered the game ranked near the bottom in third-down conversions but flipped the script, going 7-of-14 (a season-high 50%). Much of that success came through Pitts and the passing game.
The Falcons also went 3-for-3 in the red zone, while Arizona struggled mightily inside the 20. Small details like these turned a potential loss into a victory, showing growth under head coach Raheem Morris even in a lost season.
The Falcons return home for a Monday night matchup against the surging Los Angeles Rams in Week 17. With pride on the line, Atlanta will look to build on this momentum and spoil some playoff hopes. Rise Up!
More from AtlantaFi.com:
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In a homecoming performance for the ages, Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson eclipsed 2,000 yards from scrimmage for the season, powering his team to a hard-fought 26-19 comeback victory over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday at State Farm Stadium.
The third-year star from Tucson finished with 168 all-purpose yards — 76 rushing on 16 carries and 92 receiving on seven catches — including a pivotal 13-yard touchdown reception that sparked Atlanta’s rally from a 10-point deficit.
Robinson Has Big Game Vs. Arizona
Robinson’s milestone makes him just the third player in Falcons history to reach 2,000 scrimmage yards in a single season, joining William Andrews (1981 and 1983) and Jamal Anderson (1998).
“This is so special,” Robinson said postgame, surrounded by roughly 200 family and friends in attendance. “Playing back home and hitting that mark — it’s a blessing.”
Quarterback Kirk Cousins threw for two touchdowns — one to Robinson and another to tight end Kyle Pitts — while adding a 1-yard rushing score of his own.
Cousins finished with 197 passing yards and one interception, efficiently guiding the offense in a game where the Falcons converted a season-high 50% on third downs.
The Falcons (now 6-9) trailed 13-3 early in the second quarter before Robinson took over.
On a crucial three-play drive, he hauled in a 41-yard pass, rushed for 11 yards, and capped it with his touchdown catch to pull Atlanta within 13-10
Later, a 29-yard run by Robinson set up another scoring opportunity, helping Atlanta tie the game at 16-16 heading into halftime despite a blocked extra point.
Cousins’ sneak in the fourth quarter extended the lead, and cornerback C.J. Henderson — elevated from the practice squad just a day earlier — sealed the win with a late interception of Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
For Arizona (3-12), suffering their seventh straight loss, Brissett threw a touchdown to wide receiver Michael Wilson but couldn’t overcome missed field goals and a blown early lead. The Cardinals’ struggles continued despite efforts from tight end Elijah Higgins and a strong ground game.
Robinson now sits at 2,026 scrimmage yards (1,250 rushing, 776 receiving), leading the NFL and putting him in striking distance of Andrews’ franchise record of 2,176 set in 1983.
With two games remaining, the dynamic back has cemented himself as the cornerstone of Atlanta’s offense.
“I’ve been calling him the best player in football all year,” head coach Raheem Morris said. “He’s phenomenal.”
The Falcons return home for a Monday night matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 17, looking to build momentum in a disappointing season salvaged by Robinson’s brilliance.
AtlantaFi.com
Your home for Falcons coverage and Georgia sports news. -
As the Atlanta Falcons limp toward the end of another disappointing season, even winning a few games in the final month, fresh rumors are swirling about the organization’s front office and potential coaching changes.
According to NFL insider Josina Anderson, upper-level personnel within the Falcons remain “fond” of legendary coach Bill Belichick, fueling speculation that head coach Raheem Morris’ job could be on shaky ground.
Insider: Falcons Still Have Feelings for Belichick
Anderson reported on December 18 that there has been recent interest from at least two NFL teams in speaking with Belichick on an “exploratory basis.”
She specifically noted that Belichick still has admirers in high places in Atlanta, as well as in New York (Giants) and Cleveland (Browns)—all teams dealing with struggles this season.
This isn’t the first time Belichick’s name has been linked to the Falcons. Back in early 2024, after parting ways with the New England Patriots, Belichick interviewed twice for the Atlanta job and was widely considered the frontrunner.
Owner Arthur Blank appeared eager to bring in the six-time Super Bowl champion, but the team ultimately pivoted to Raheem Morris, the former Rams defensive coordinator with prior ties to the organization.
Now, nearly two years later, the Falcons sit at a disappointing record with another playoff miss locked in—extending the drought to eight straight seasons. Morris, in his second year, has overseen a team plagued by inconsistencies, quarterback transitions, and defensive lapses. While the Falcons showed fight in recent games, including a gritty win over a division rival, the overall results have fallen short of expectations.
The Belichick rumor adds fuel to an already hot seat for Morris. Reports suggest that some in the organization—possibly including Blank himself—still hold the future Hall of Famer in high regard.
Belichick, currently coaching at North Carolina after a challenging first college season, has a low buyout in his contract that could make an NFL return feasible.
Falcons fans are no strangers to coaching carousel drama, and this latest whisper has reignited debates about whether revisiting Belichick would be a stroke of genius or a sign of organizational dysfunction.
Blank has yet to comment publicly on Morris’ status, but with three games left in the season, the evaluations are undoubtedly underway.
For now, Morris and the team are focused on finishing strong against tough remaining opponents.
But as Black Monday approaches, all eyes will be on Flowery Branch to see if the Falcons’ fondness for Belichick turns into something more.Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports Chronicle for the latest updates on the Falcons’ offseason outlook.
